Northern markets face tough economic realities

* Four small-town markets face moving out of council control in Wakefield district, two sites could be sold and markets relocated
* Council says: "...trade has dropped off at some markets since the recession."
* Leeds Kirkgate Market could be reduced in size

The exterior of Leeds Market. Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian Photograph: Christopher Thomond for the Guardian
Christopher Thomond/Guardian

Four smaller historical markets in the Wakefield district could be about to move out of local authority control, with some sites facing being sold off and the markets being relocated.

Wakefield Council is faced with saving £67m over the next four years due to government funding cuts and is reviewing the future of its services, including libraries.

A report on options for the future delivery of Wakefield district markets is on the agenda for the Council's Cabinet on June 14. The report identifies four markets at Hemsworth, Featherstone, Normanton and South Elmsall, and seeks approval to start negotiations with other interested parties on how these markets might be delivered in the future.

It further proposes negotiations around the potential sale, or partial sale, of sites used for Hemsworth and South Elmsall markets. If this happens, these markets could operate from different locations.

David Dagger, cabinet member responsible for markets, said:

"We know how valuable markets are to local communities but it is a sad fact that trade has dropped off at some markets since the recession and we need to ensure we are providing value for money.

"The council is faced with taking some very tough decisions due to the financial situation we find ourselves in. We are looking at whether non-core markets could be delivered more sustainably in the future. That may include asking other organisations to come forward and run non-core markets so they can continue serving their communities. The report to Cabinet marks the start of that process."

Graham Wilson, chief executive of the National Association of British Market Authorities (NABMA), said the action being taken by Wakefield Council was consistent with the approach being recommended nationally by NABMA and being followed by other local authorities around the country. He said:

"We want local authorities to look at a whole range of management models for markets to make sure they are delivered in a way that is fit for purpose. Wakefield's action in talking to other organisations and looking at different ways of providing markets is completely in line with our recommendations and we welcome the steps being taken."

Last month The Northerner featured the changing times for markets as traders and supporters dig in to support historic institutions - our oldest form of exchange - in Leeds and Mexborough.